Lamattina takes two-pronged attack at Calder return

Lamattina Top Fuel Racing will be ready to show Victorian fans just how far the sport of drag racing has progressed in recent years as the team takes two of the most technically advanced Top Fuel cars in the country to the Fuchs Nitro Thunder presented by Crow Cams event at Calder Park.

It will be the first time Calder Park has seen ANDRA championship drag racing since 2001, once the country's premier drag racing venue, Calder Park hosted the Australian Nationals were held at the venue from 1992 through to 2001.

ANDRA's return to drag racing in Melbourne is something that LTFR will be looking to celebrate in the best possible way – a win.

"We want to win, it's that simple," explained team driver Phil Lamattina.

"Racing at Calder Park is something we have been wanting to do for a long time, it's our closest race track and the home of the automotive industry in Australia.

"It makes sense to be racing in Victoria, I just can't wait to get to the start line."

Phil Lamattina has another reason to be eager to get to the Melbourne event - it will be the first time he will race alongside brother John.

"I can't wait to race with John, watching him license the car was great, he's a natural and you will see that at Calder."

The second LTFR car will also be backed by Fuchs Lubricants at both the Calder round as well as the Australian Nationals at Sydney Dragway.

When quizzed about whether he was to play the 'blocker' role to help brother Phil win the championship, John was quick to reply.

"Forget it, I didn't start racing to come second," smiled John with typical Lamattina honesty.

"There isn't a weak car in Top Fuel nowadays, I'll be doing everything I can to beat everyone on the entry list, including Phil."

Fuchs Nitro Thunder presented by Crow Cams on Saturday, October 19 sees qualifying from 9am with racing from 5pm. Spectator gates open at 8.30am and general admission is $35 for adults.